The History of the Negro Church

by Carter Godwin Woodson

"The History of the Negro Church" by Carter Godwin Woodson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. It explores the evolution of the church as a vital institution within the African American community, tracing its development from early missionary efforts to the establishment of independent churches. The book seeks to highlight the significant yet often overlooked contributions of various denominations to the spiritual life of African Americans. The opening of this work sets the stage for an examination of the relationship between early missionaries and the Negro population in America. Woodson discusses the initial reluctance of European colonists to include African Americans in their religious outreach, viewing them largely as unworthy of conversion. He elaborates on the challenges faced by early missionaries and church leaders when attempting to educate and evangelize the enslaved people, revealing the contradictions and resistance encountered in their efforts to advocate for the religious instruction of African Americans amidst widespread societal and institutional racism.